Do accounting classes have a lot of math?

Asked by: Guillermo McClure  |  Last update: November 4, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (71 votes)

Accounting programs usually require business and management courses as well as statistics. While some degrees may require a higher math course, it's really lower math operations and basic algebra that will help you most. So if you struggled through calculus in high school or managed to avoid it entirely, don't despair.

Does accounting involve a lot of math?

Accountants need to be proficient in basic arithmetic, algebra, and statistics to analyze financial data, prepare reports, and ensure accuracy in their work. They may also use mathematical principles to perform tasks such as budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.

What kind of math is used in accounting?

While there is a commonly held belief that accounting is all about the complexities of mathematical operations such as calculus and geometry, this is not true. Accountants, instead, mainly work with basic arithmetic, percentages, and some algebraic concepts to complete their professional duties proficiently.

Is accounting a hard class to take?

Just like any other program, you'll run into some elements of accounting that are complex, but you may also find some of it to be relatively intuitive, or even easy. As with any other subject, you'll need to study and apply yourself if you want to succeed, but that remains true for virtually every single major.

What level of maths is required for accounting?

What level of maths do I need then? To enrol on an entry level accounting course, such as AAT Level 2, you need a decent grasp of maths, preferably GCSE grade 9-4 (A*-C). So you don't need to be a maths genius, or have a maths degree.

5 Tips for Studying Accounting

25 related questions found

Does accounting pay well?

The top-paying industries for accountants include finance and insurance, management of companies and enterprises, tax preparation, and the government. The top-paying states/districts for accountants include Washington D.C., New York, New Jersey, California, and Massachusetts.

Can I do accounting without maths?

Proficiency in maths is just one requirement to become an accountant, with employers valuing softer skills including communication and team work which is why so many arts and humanities students find their place in the accountancy profession.

Which accounting class is hardest?

1. Intermediate Accounting: Often divided into two parts, Intermediate Accounting tends to give most students a hard time. The course delves deeper into the concepts you would have covered in introductory financial accounting.

How do I pass my accounting class?

I recommend a process that includes twelve steps: (1) know what the professor expects, (2) be your own teacher, (3) work hard from the first day, (4) attend every class, (5) take good notes, (6) participate in class, (7) read the textbook several times, (8) look for patterns, (9) do the homework, (10) study with a ...

What is the hardest business major?

What is the Hardest Business Major? The difficulty of a business major depends on a number of factors including natural talents, chosen courses, and school. However, one of the hardest business majors is thought to be Accounting.

What are accounting classes like?

Accounting courses cover a range of topics, such as budgets, financial statements, tax law, and production costs. In your accounting courses, you'll explore the accounting cycle as well as how to prepare financial statements, create and manage budgets, and collect and document financial evidence.

Can you do bookkeeping if you're bad at math?

There's a common question that floats around when it comes to accounting: “Do I need to be good at math?” Based on my experience studying and working in accounting, the answer is reassuringly “not necessarily.” It's a myth that you need to be a math whiz to be a good accountant.

Is finance math heavy?

One thing that's for sure is the high amount of math you will need to study. Finance is a mathematical discipline, so if you aren't as comfortable with math as with other ways of thinking, you may find it more challenging. Additionally, finance also makes use of a vast, highly specific vocabulary.

How do I know if I like accounting?

If you enjoy math, data analysis, logical thinking and communicating information to other people, you may enjoy being an accountant. You can also consider shadowing a practicing accountant to learn more about the details of the career and whether you would enjoy it.

How hard is a degree in accounting?

Earning a degree in accounting can be challenging due to the complex nature of the subject matter, however it is not necessarily categorized as math-heavy. Students who are dedicated, diligent, and hard-working can successfully earn an accounting degree.

Do accountants use calculators?

A portable calculator is an extremely useful tool for a bookkeeper or an accountant. Although PCs normally have electronic calculators, there is no substitute for the convenience of a small, portable calculator or its equivalent in a mobile phone or personal organiser.

How to study accounting for beginners?

Step-by-Step Guide
  1. Step 1: Understanding the Accounting Equation. ...
  2. Step 2: Familiarize Yourself with Financial Statements. ...
  3. Step 3: Learning to Record Business Transactions. ...
  4. Step 4: Posting Journal Entries to the Ledger. ...
  5. Step 5: Prepare the Trial Balance. ...
  6. Step 6: Make Adjusting Entries. ...
  7. Step 7: Prepare Financial Statements.

Is it easy to pass accounting?

This makes passing the CPA Exam a difficult, but achievable, goal. You'll need to study wisely, set a strategy for managing your time, and call on your support network, but with the right plan and good study materials, you will conquer it.

What is the hardest thing to learn in accounting?

The Top 3 Most Difficult Accounting Principles That Stump Students Every Time
  • Most Difficult Accounting Principles. ...
  • Why Are Some Accounting Principles Difficult to Understand? ...
  • Revenue Recognition Principle. ...
  • Matching Principle. ...
  • Economic Entity Assumption. ...
  • Get Help with Accounting Principles.

Is accounting very math heavy?

Accounting is number heavy but it is not math-heavy. Unless you consider adding and subtracting numbers together to be heavy. It doesn't get much harder than that.

What is the easiest accounting class?

Easy Accounting Courses in a Bachelor's Degree Program
  • Accounting Information Systems. ...
  • Auditing. ...
  • Financial and Managerial Accounting. ...
  • Intermediate Accounting. ...
  • Introduction to Business. ...
  • Macroeconomics. ...
  • Principles of Finance.

Why are accounting classes so hard?

Moreover, accounting is hard due to its detailed nature; you'll find yourself submerged in financial records, business courses, and advanced financial accounting classes. Critical thinking skills are essential, and most accounting professionals will tell you that the journey involves a steep learning curve.

How much maths is in accounting?

It's basic addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Possibly some light, entry-level algebra, but that's it. You don't have to understand calculus. You just need the mental ability to associate abstract information (numbers printed on a page) with real-world quantities (money and other valuables).

What grades do I need for accounting?

Applicants must demonstrate a broad general education including acceptable levels of Literacy and Numeracy, equivalent to at least Grade B or 6 in GCSE/iGCSE English Language and Grade A or 7 in Mathematics. GCSE/iGCSE English Literature will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE/iGCSE English Language.

What type of math do accountants do?

A comfort level with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, order of operations, exponents and some general algebra is what you will most often need to draw on in accounting work.